David Johnson (1827-1908)

Near Noroton, Connecticut

Details

David Johnson (1827-1908)
Near Noroton, Connecticut
signed with conjoined initials and dated 'DJ. 75.' (lower left)--signed and dated again and inscribed with title (on the reverse prior to lining)--signed again (on the stretcher)
oil on canvas
15 ¾ x 22 ¾ in. (40 x 57.8 cm.)
Painted in 1875.

Provenance

Sotheby's, New York, 24 May 1989, lot 13.
Alexander Gallery, New York.
Private collection, West Coast.
Phillips, New York, 21 May 2002, lot 31, sold by the above.
(Probably) Acquired by the present owner from the above.

Literature

M. Naylor, ed., National Academy of Design Exhibition Record, 1861-1900, vol. 1 (A-L), New York, 1973, p. 496.

Exhibited

New York, National Academy of Design, National Academy of Design Annual Exhibition, March 28-May 31, 1876, no. 269.

Brought to you by

William Haydock

whaydock@christies.com 212-636-2140

Lot Essay

As epitomized by Near Noroton, Connecticut, Gwendolyn Owens writes, "Johnson's tranquil meditations always study and celebrate the aesthetic harmonies in patterns of color, shape, and texture which link the diverse elements of the landscape, the ecological relations which make each natural element a part of an intricate whole and also the close interdependence between the natural system and the people who come to it for their livelihood, their recreation, and their spiritual renewal. Emphasizing these harmonies, Johnson's paintings seem intended to serve as the bridge between human viewers and the world." (Nature Transcribed: The Landscapes and Still Lifes of David Johnson, Ithaca, New York, 1988, p. 13)

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